Help & FAQs

Find the answers to our most frequently asked questions, as well as some handy hints and tips about running your own Travel Counsellors business.

Is there anything that I can offer my customers as a Travel Counsellor which sets me apart?

Yes, time and peace of mind! Through the excellent back-up support you will have more time to concentrate on each customer allowing you the opportunity to carry out more detailed searches with more value-added benefits. As a Travel Counsellor you’ll be able to offer your customers an authentic, tailor-made travel service, creating bespoke, ‘one-off’ itineraries that cannot be found anywhere else. And you can also offer your customers unique financial protection on any booking made through us is fully protected.

Our Travel counsellors set themselves apart from the rest by building relationships with their customers delivering the highest level of personal service and care. In fact, 96% say they would recommend Travel counsellors to their friends, family and colleagues

What experience do I need?

We have a route to becoming a Travel Counsellor for everyone who has experience working in Travel. We currently offer the following routes: Leisure: For travel professionals who have a minimum of 3+ years’ recent experience in a role selling travel. Corporate: For travel professionals who have a minimum of 3+ years’ experience in managing travel for corporate clients. Return to Travel: For travel professionals who have a minimum of 3+ years’ experience in a role selling travel but have had a break of more than 3+ years. Our recruitment team will be happy to discuss your individual experience and advise you on the best route for you.

How much can I earn as a Travel Counsellor?

How much you can earn as a Travel Counsellor is entirely up to you. Your earning potential is completely uncapped, so the more you put in, the more you get out. Our commission model is based on a 60/40 split – you retain 60% of the profit you make on your bookings – and with our in-house booking system, Phenix, you’ll have complete control over the margin you make on your bookings.

Can I choose my own hours?

It’s your business, so you’re the boss. Just make sure that you’re devoting enough time to developing your business and nurturing your customer base. If you’re working one hour a day and expecting incredible rewards, you might be disappointed – it’s no coincidence that our most successful Travel Counsellors are also our hardest working! The flexibility that running your own business offers is one of the many reasons why our Travel counsellors made the decision to be their own boss.

What does it cost to become a Travel Counsellor?

For the Leisure and Corporate Program, the joining is $650 + GST. This covers induction training in Melbourne Head Office (including Accommodation) as well as a new laptop with all systems preloaded such as Galileo, our dynamic booking platform “Phenix” and much more

If you are joining the Return to Travel Program the fee is $2850.00+ GST. This includes your comprehensive 15 week training program, including induction training in Melbourne (and accommodation) a new laptop with all systems preloaded such as Galileo, our dynamic booking platform “Phenix” and much more

You will have everything you need to set up your own business from day 1

Thereafter there is a monthly management fee of $93.50 per month which includes your professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance

Do I have to be home-based?

The vast majority of our Travel Counsellors work from home – but if you’d prefer, you’re welcome to rent a non-retail office. But our stats show that you’ll be happier and more successful working from the comfort of your own home!
But with this in mind, this doesn’t mean that you have to have your customers coming to your home, you can meet them anywhere, any time – It’s your business, it’s your choice.

I've heard homeworking can be lonely. What support is available?

There are over 1,800 Travel Counsellors working around the clock, around the world – so you’ll always find that there’s someone to talk to if you fancy a chat! But we’re not just about webcams, message boards and TCTV broadcasts. You’ll have plenty of ways to meet with your friends and colleagues face to face, with our anniversary days, training days and our prestigious Annual Conference. As a member of the TC family, we promise you’ll never feel alone. If you would like support at any time, our friendly and helpful Business Development team, based in Melbourne, are only ever a phone call away.

The level of support, engagement and empowerment from one Travel Counsellors to another is incredible and many of our TC’s will get together on a regular basis to catch up, connect and also work together.

How long does it take to get set up?

Dependent on your notice period from initial inquiry to start of training we can set you up within 3 weeks. Our induction trainings are held every 3-4 weeks making the transition seamless for you and your customers.

How long is the initial training?

After a series of eLearning pre-induction modules, you’ll join a 5-day a training program at our head office in Melbourne. It’s a friendly and engaging way to learn all about the Travel Counsellors approach to travel.

Is there a minimum sales target?

Whilst we don't set any defined targets, we encourage you to achieve a minimum of $300,000 sales in your second year. This is in your own financial best interests and to ensure you are setting off on a path to a sustainable, successful business.

When do I get paid?

You’ll be paid monthly by bank transfer, with commissions earned 8 weeks before the customer travel date. If you have any queries, you can always call our Accounts team for friendly expertise!

Do you provide leads?

No. You'll build your client base from your personal network. And this is where our highly skilled business coaches can help and mentor you with the growth of your business. You will receive our full support to help you nurture a loyal customer base, promote your business and attract new leads.

We'll suggest that you compile a list of family, friends and other personal contacts who you believe will support your new venture. You'll be surprised how many people you know when you set your mind to it!

Will you help me market my business?

Yes, your Business Development Coach will help you develop a detailed plan on how to market yourself and your business in the area.

You’ll have access to professional and effective marketing materials created by our talented team of creatives. We’re also on hand with plenty of tips on how to market yourself. Plus, we have great tools for you to use on our intranet system such as personalised marketing e-shots, electronic postcards and destination guides, social media pins etc., all at your disposal. We also send out 2 beautiful magazines twice a year, “Be Inspired” & Voyage -Cruise Brochure” and this is completely free to your entire database of customers.

If you’d like to discuss upcoming marketing campaigns, our Marketing team would be happy to take your call.

Is there out of hours support?

Wherever you are, whenever you need us, you can rest assured that there will always someone on hand to help you. Our duty office is available 24/7 to help and support both you and your customers should an issue arise. The duty office monitor worldwide events, so should an issue arise that may affect your clients then the duty office will communicate accordingly. They will also run a report to identify the bookings that may be in resort or travelling imminently and they will notify you of any bookings affected. The Travel Counsellor and the duty office work together to ensure our customers are looked after.

What happens when I go on holiday?

We all need a break – so rest assured that your business won’t suffer while you’re taking some well-earned time away. We operate a buddy system, so a named Travel Counsellor will look after your customers in your absence. We just ask that you return the favour!

Will head office take care of my admin?

No one likes admin - so we’ll do it for you! Our head office In Melbourne include our dedicated accounts and administration team. Imagine having someone else take care of all your payments and reconciling your files!

The team are here to process your clients’ documentation for all third-party retail bookings. This includes the checking and sending of confirmation invoices, as well as the processing and sending of your customers’ tickets. They also take care of refunds, names changes and cancellations. Additionally, all your sales and commissions, which are paid to you monthly, are tracked daily and are displayed live on your intranet screen for you to see. The whole system is very transparent. This support means you’ll have more time to dedicate to each of your customers – which is what really matters.

I’ve always enjoyed going on educational trips - will I still have that opportunity?

We understand that to sell a destination, first-hand experience is invaluable. Thanks to our strong supplier relationships, we’re delighted to offer a wide range of educational opportunities to all Travel Counsellors.

Can I still employ my own staff?

Because of the unique nature of your franchise agreement with Travel Counsellors, there are no limits on your hiring of staff if you feel you need to. Additionally, you can even sell your business and realise its value at a later date! Because most of the admin & accounts is taken care of by Head Office, your time is spent doing what you love. Meeting with your customers, creating beautiful itineraries and booking holidays.

Can I have another job?

We believe that for you to have a successful business as a Travel Counsellor you need to be able to commit at least 30 hours per week. It can be tough leaving a salary, so we are open to discussions about secondary employment while you’re starting off.

What happens if I want to terminate my franchise agreement?

We have a 5-year contract, however we do not have any lock in fees, so should you need to terminate your franchise before that time, you may do so. Most importantly your database is yours to keep and goes with you.

Can I have my own website?

We set you up with a personal webpage at no additional cost, so that your customers can find you and read about you, as well as displaying your contact detail and current market offers for inspiration. It also gives you a place to write all about the amazing places you have been and to share your customer testimonials.

Am I truly mobile?

You have access to state-of-the-art technology, where you can meet your client anywhere, book their holiday anytime and take payment all in one go. We set you up with a laptop and will link all your mobile devices so that you have access at any time. We offer you 24-hour IT support so that you have peace of mind.

Other companies offer a higher commission split, will you match them?

Travel Counsellors offers outstanding value for its fee structure. Besides the superior administration and technology support we provide which surpasses anything else in the market, we are also continually making investments in technology costing millions of dollars each year. This on-going investment ensures that you stay at the forefront of the travel industry and comes at no additional cost to you. No other company offers the scope of hands on business development support and marketing tools which are so critical in helping you to win new business. Many items that other companies charge for are free with Travel Counsellors: we will not charge courier fees to deliver documents to you, or for developing your personal website. No other company supplies free laptops, printers, stationery, ticket wallets, luggage labels and other marketing items. Plus, you earn more with our Phenix Online product which offers you 20% commission on more than 400,000 hotels worldwide. When you compare the additional costs of other home-working companies to the all-inclusive approach of Travel Counsellors, you will soon discover that we offer the best package in the market.